You should get a cae for your iPad because you have just purchased an expensive gadget made up of aluminum and glass, both of which are not famously strong.

Apple iPads come in four variants, each requiring a different-size case. However, Apple makes only one case that fits most iPad variants, The Smart Cover, but like all Apple products, it is expensive  and protects only the screen. 

All good Apple cases have a front cover that reliably triggers the iPad’s magnetic sleep/wake feature when opened or closed and won’t shift around when shut. 

The best affordable case for iPad (5th generation): Moko Ultra Slim

The best affordable iPad case: ESR Lightweight Smart Case Trifold Stand

The best affordable basic folio for the 10.5-inch iPad Pro: Moko Ultra Slim for 10.5-inch iPad Pro (slim)

The best affordable basic folio for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation): Moko Ultra Slim for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation)

The best affordable cover for the 10.5-inch iPad Pro, Apple Pencil, and Smart Keyboard: Khomo Companion Cover for 10.5-inch iPad Pro (back cover has a cutout for magnetic covers and a stylus holder.)

The best affordable cover for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation), Apple Pencil, and Smart Keyboard: Khomo Companion Cover for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation)

The best affordable protective case for the 10.5-inch iPad Pro, Apple Pencil, and Smart Keyboard: Urban Armor Gear Metropolis for 10.5-inch iPad Pro (pricey, bulky)

The best affordable protective case for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation), Apple Pencil, and Smart Keyboard: Urban Armor Gear Metropolis for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation)

The best affordable case for the 9.7-inch iPad Pro: Khomo Dual for 9.7-inch iPad Pro (clean design)

The best affordable case for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st generation): Khomo Dual for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st generation)

The best affordable case for the 9.7-inch iPad Pro and Apple Pencil: iVapo Slim Folio Case for 9.7-inch iPad Pro (slim)

The best affordable case for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st generation) and Apple Pencil: iVapo Slim Folio Case for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st generation)

The best affordable case for iPad mini 4: Khomo Dual for iPad mini 4